Down Syndrome Awareness Month: Celebrating Bobby's Dedication, Warmth, and Perseverance
- Ginger Cohen - TMI Director of Corporate Communications
- Oct 8
- 3 min read
As we continue to celebrate Down Syndrome Awareness Month and National Disability Employment Awareness Month, Toward Maximum Independence (TMI) is honored to recognize one of our extraordinary clients, Bobby. Bobby, who is with the TMI Community Integration Training Program, truly exemplifies what it means to go above and beyond. He inspires those around him with his dedication, warmth, and perseverance.
"Bobby is a very sweet and respectful gentleman who has grown lots of confidence in himself since joining TMI," said TMI Direct Support Professional Marina Pineda. "He loves his TMI program and doesn't like to miss a day. He gets along well with everyone."
Bobby’s enthusiasm for life extends beyond his work, especially when it comes to his favorite sports. According to Rudy Rodriguez, Services Supervisor (Senior Center) for the City of Moreno Valley, it was clear when Bobby starting volunteering they were "going to hit it off" right away because "we are both huge sports fans". And when it comes to his teams, Bobby’s loyalty is unmatched: he has a deep love for the Dodgers and Cowboys.
His hard work at the Moreno Valley Community Senior Center has made a lasting impression on Mr. Rodriguez , who wrote a letter praising Bobby's remarkable contributions and character. Whether it’s before lunch set up or after lunch tear down, Bobby brings an unmatched level of energy and joy to everything he does. He is known not only for showing up on time and doing his tasks with care, but for doing so with a smile and an eagerness to help.
In fact, Bobby often exceeds expectations:
When others are disengaged, Bobby often offers encouragement.
When something needs extra attention, he is the first to volunteer.
He performs his tasks in ways that remind everyone of the power of
kindness, consistency, and heart.
Beyond his strong work ethic, what truly sets Bobby apart is his ability to connect with others. According to Mr. Rodriguez, Bobby has "an incredible gift for making everyone around him feel very important and valued." He beautifully summarized Bobby's impact: "In a world that can sometimes be cruel and impersonal, Bobby brings humanity back into focus".
Bobby is a role model not just for individuals with disabilities, but for everyone. He is a reminder that greatness doesn't always come with fanfare; it often shows up in everyday acts of dedication, compassion, and love for others. As Mr. Rodriguez said, "we are all better for knowing Bobby, I know I am, and I believe his story deserves to be recognized and celebrated".
We agree! All of us at TMI are very proud of you, Bobby, keep up the great work!
(Thank you to Marina for contributing to this story and to Mr. Rodriguez for sharing his heartfelt letter, as well as partnering with us to transform lives.)
The TMI Community Integration Training Program (CITP) is designed as a vocational and social skills training program to recognize, develop and build the necessary skills for our clients to participate in their community, all at the level at which the client chooses. Clients generally start the process by volunteering throughout the community at various sites. They continue at their own speed, in line with their desires and abilities, while working toward their own personal goals.
October is also National Disability Employment Awareness Month and great time to partner with us! If you are interested in having our outstanding team members join your organization, contact us today. We look forward to hearing from you!
Founded in 1981, Toward Maximum Independence (TMI) is a nonprofit organization, serving San Diego, Riverside and Imperial Counties, that is dedicated to transforming the lives of children and adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities, the Deaf and Hard of Hearing and veterans with disabilities. TMI strives to help our clients to realize their hopes and dreams by providing Employment Solutions, Community Living Services and Family Support Services. To stay connected with us, follow us on Facebook, LinkedIn, YouTube, and Instagram. Together we can share acceptance and awareness, ultimately contributing to further inclusion. Please consider making a donation to assist us with transforming lives for many more years to come. We thank you in advance! Tax ID# 33-0185759
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